Philly Cheese Steak Casserole Recipe – Cozy Comfort in Every Bite

There’s something magical about the aroma of a hearty meal bubbling in the oven. As the rich scents of savory beef and melted cheese waft through your kitchen, you can’t help but feel that warm, cozy embrace that only a home-cooked dinner can bring. This Philly Cheese Steak Casserole recipe is a wonderful reminder of joyful gatherings and family feasts, all wrapped up in one delicious dish.

Why You’ll Love It

• Quick and easy to make
• Comforting homemade flavor
• Made with simple ingredients
• Great for any occasion
• Always a crowd-pleaser

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1/2 pound small shells
• 32 ounces beef stock
• 32 ounces water
• 2 tablespoons butter (unsalted gives you control over the salt)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced (fresh garlic gives it that extra flavor boost)
• 1 pound ground beef
• 8 ounces cream cheese
• 1 green pepper, diced
• 1/2 yellow onion, diced
• 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• 6 slices provolone cheese

How to Make It

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees.
2. Boil the pasta: In a pot, combine the beef stock with the 32 ounces of water. Cook the small shells in this aromatic broth according to package directions. Make sure to reserve 1/2 cup of that golden pasta water before draining the shells.
3. Sauté your veggies: Melt the butter in an oven-proof skillet. As it melts, the buttery aroma fills the air. Sauté the minced garlic for about thirty seconds until it’s fragrant, then add the green pepper and yellow onion. Cook until they’re tender—about 5 minutes—and enjoy the vibrant smells dancing together.
4. Brown the beef: Add in the ground beef, tossing it in with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook it through, letting it brown beautifully before draining any excess grease. The sizzle will sound so satisfying!
5. Create a creamy base: Stir in the cream cheese until it melts into a dreamy sauce. Then, mix in your reserved pasta water, the cooked shells, and the shredded mozzarella. The mixture should look creamy and inviting.
6. Top it off: Lay the slices of provolone cheese over the top. It’s like a cozy blanket for your casserole!
7. Bake: Pop it in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the provolone is completely melted and bubbly. The kitchen will smell like heaven!

If your skillet isn’t oven-proof, no worries! Just transfer the mixture to a greased 9 by 13 inch baking dish before topping with provolone.

Kitchen Tips

• Time-saving trick: To make dinner even quicker, you can use pre-cooked beef or rotisserie chicken if you’re in a pinch.
• Common mistake fix: If your casserole seems too dry, just add a bit more of that reserved pasta water. It brings back the creamy texture!
• Creative twist: Feel free to toss in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a flavor and color boost. It’s all about making it your own!

Serving Ideas

This Philly Cheese Steak Casserole is perfect for family dinners, cozy nights in, or even holiday gatherings. It brings everyone together! Serve it with a light side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. And don’t forget to top it with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for that extra zing!

Storing & Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing.
• To reheat, pop it in the microwave or back in the oven. Add a splash of water or broth to revive the creamy texture and keep it moist.
• For a fun leftover idea, make cheesy wraps with tortillas using the casserole, fresh veggies, and any extra sauce—it’s a fantastic lunch!

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Definitely! It often tastes even better the next day.

Q: Can I swap any ingredients?
A: Of course! Use what you have — this recipe is very forgiving.

Q: What’s the best way to serve it?
A: Fresh from the pan, while it’s still warm and aromatic.

Q: How do I know it’s perfectly cooked?
A: Look for golden edges and that delicious, fragrant smell — that’s your sign!

Final Thoughts

This Philly Cheese Steak Casserole has found a special place in my heart, just like those cozy family dinners on Sunday evenings. I encourage you to try this recipe, gather your loved ones, and make memories around the table. Feel free to make it your own by adding your favorite ingredients and personal touches. The magic of this dish is all about comfort, togetherness, and the joy of sharing good food. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Philly Cheese Steak Casserole

A comforting and delicious casserole with savory beef, melted cheese, and small pasta shells, perfect for family gatherings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Pasta and Base

• 1/2 pound small shells Use any small pasta shape
• 32 ounces beef stock Can use low-sodium if preferred
• 32 ounces water
• 2 tablespoons butter Unsalted for better flavor control
• 8 ounces cream cheese Softened for easier mixing
• 1/2 cup reserved pasta water Reserved from boiling pasta

Meat and Vegetables

• 1 pound ground beef Can substitute with pre-cooked beef or rotisserie chicken
• 2 garlic cloves minced garlic Fresh garlic enhances flavor
• 1 green pepper diced
• 1/2 yellow onion diced

Cheese

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• 6 slices provolone cheese Use as a topping

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees.
2. In a pot, combine the beef stock with the 32 ounces of water. Cook the small shells in this aromatic broth according to package directions, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

Cooking

1. Melt the butter in an oven-proof skillet. Sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds, then add the diced green pepper and yellow onion. Cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
2. Add ground beef to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned, draining excess grease.
3. Stir in the cream cheese until melted, then add the reserved pasta water, cooked shells, and shredded mozzarella, mixing well.
4. Lay the slices of provolone over the top of the mixture.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the provolone is melted and bubbly.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven with a splash of water or broth to retain creaminess.